Indian Folktales and Legends
on Goodreads (29)
What’s inside...
Stories of wonder and wit, from far and near Everyone will find a favourite story in this collection of folktales and legends. There is the story of Jumman the labourer, who thinks the Qazi of Jaunpur is actually his donkey! And the strange adventure of Dhania who, stealing out for a midnight snack, gets stuck in honey. Or the account of how a lowly weasel put the mighty Yudhishtir in place. And what happens when Bhim tries to match his strength against that of Hanuman! Culled from all parts of the country, and spanning heaven, earth and the netherworld, these stories let us into a world of enchantment, wisdom and loads of fun.
Age
7-12
Length
176 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What lesson did you learn from the folktale we read today?
Which character did you like the most and why?
How do you think the story would change if it happened in today's world?
Can you think of a time when you faced a similar problem as one of the characters? What did you do?
What is one thing you would change about the story we read?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think critically about the folktales by asking them to imagine alternative endings or scenarios. Use the stories as a way to explore different cultural aspects and moral lessons, helping your child understand diverse perspectives. Draw parallels between the tales and your child's everyday experiences to make the stories more relatable and memorable. Lastly, fostering an environment where your child feels comfortable expressing their thoughts and opinions about the story will help reinforce their comprehension and analytical skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of honesty
Explanation: In several tales within 'Indian Folktales and Legends', characters who speak the truth and behave honestly are rewarded, while those who lie face consequences. This recurring theme promotes the value of truthfulness.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by being honest in their interactions at school and with family, learning that truthfulness builds trust and positive relationships.
Example Lesson: Respect for diversity
Explanation: The book features stories from various parts of India, showcasing diverse cultures and traditions. This highlights the importance of respecting and appreciating different backgrounds and ways of life.
Real-World Application: Children can embrace this lesson by showing curiosity and respect towards classmates from different cultural backgrounds, promoting inclusivity and understanding in their social circles.
Example Lesson: The power of perseverance
Explanation: Several stories depict characters facing challenges but ultimately succeeding through persistence and determination. These narratives reinforce the message that not giving up in the face of adversity is a commendable trait.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to persist in their studies or in learning new skills, understanding that challenges can be overcome with dedication and hard work.
Example Lesson: Kindness and generosity
Explanation: Characters in the book who act with kindness and generosity often find themselves recipients of good fortune, illustrating the benefits of these virtues.
Real-World Application: Children learn to share with others, help friends in need, and contribute positively to their community, realizing that their actions can lead to a supportive and caring environment.
Example Lesson: Value of teamwork
Explanation: In some tales, characters achieve goals by working together, demonstrating that collaboration can lead to success where going alone might not.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to participate in team activities and value others' contributions at school or in extracurricular clubs, fostering a sense of community and shared achievement.